Now the rule of digital payment has been completely implemented at toll plazas across the country. This means that now you will not need to pay cash at toll points, rather all transactions will be done through digital mediums only. But, there is an interesting twist amidst this big change. There are some parts of the country where the old system is still working and there you can continue your journey by paying cash.
In which states has relief been given?
On one hand, the entire country is becoming hi-tech, while in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, West Bengal and Union Territory Puducherry, the old system of toll payment will remain intact for the time being. Drivers living in or passing through these five specific areas have currently been kept out of the strictness of the digital rule. There is no technical flaw behind this, but a big democratic reason. Actually, the election season is currently going on in all these states and union territories. During elections, Model Code of Conduct is implemented in the entire area. The rules of the code of conduct are clear that during this period the government cannot implement any new policy or rule which will have a direct impact on the general public. This is the reason why the new digital toll rule in these electoral areas has been put on hold for the time being.
What will be the impact on the pockets of travelers?
If you are traveling in these election states, then there is no need to worry at the toll booth. The government and administration have made it clear that until the entire election process is completed, no driver will be forced to follow the new digital rules. If you understand in simple language, you can pay at the toll plazas of these states as per your convenience. If you have cash, you can get a receipt issued by paying cash. Apart from this, if FASTag is installed on your vehicle or you want to use any other method, then that will also be completely accepted. This arrangement has been put in place to provide immediate relief to the general public, so that they do not have to face any new problems in the election environment.
The system will change as soon as the elections are over
This exemption is not a permanent arrangement, but only a temporary extension. As soon as the process of voting and results is over in these five electoral constituencies, like the rest of the country, new rules will come into effect here too. The government’s stand is very clear that immediately after the elections are over, toll collection work will be started in these states completely through FASTag and UPI.